Researchers have discovered a new metallic-core exoplanet in the Neptunian region beyond the solar system, approximately 690 light-years from Earth. This planet, identified as TOI-6651b, is around 60 times more massive than Earth and exhibits a size between that of Neptune and Saturn.
The international team, led by the Physical Research Laboratory in India, detected the planet using the PARAS-2 telescope located in Mount Abu, Rajasthan. TOI-6651b is noted to be five times larger than Earth, as reported in a study published in the Journal of Astronomy and Astrophysics.
Notably, this exoplanet completes an orbit around its central star every five days. Experts indicate that approximately 87% of its composition consists of dense metals, resembling iron. Its outer layer features rocky elements combined with a low-density atmosphere of hydrogen and helium.
The surface temperature of this new exoplanet reaches around 1200 degrees Celsius, rendering it completely inhospitable for human life. Previous discoveries in the Neptunian region have revealed three other exoplanets, each 12 to 13 times larger than Earth. Scientists believe there is potential for discovering more similar planets in this region, given its atmospheric conditions and temperatures.